Dr. Ofelia Viray, Program Director of Grace Family Helper Project (Children of Promise), sent this report Monday, 10/19/2-15 from Manila:

“Reports from our Pastors and Area leaders in the Nueva Ecija areas (PHNE-012) alarmed us yesterday as they narrated how Typhoon Lando, with international name “Koppu,” devastated their places through massive flooding.

The entire province of Nueva Ecija is now under a state of calamity after the typhoon left municipalities and towns severely flooded. Major damages to agricultural crops, disruption of means of livelihood and power supply were reported as a result of the occurrence of the disaster.

Our church members and Children of Promise beneficiaries (sponsored children) in San Antonio and Calaba areas said that Typhoon Lando caused the “worst flood” they have seen in their entire life. Most of them were trapped on their rooftops and stranded in their flooded villages.

Many areas are isolated and rescue operations are hampered due to impassable roads. The Typhoon brought huge damage to agriculture and livelihood in the entire province, thus, giving worries to our members and beneficiaries especially this time that Christmas season is again fast approaching.

Our areas in San Antonio, Calaba, Umangan and Papaya are part of the list of those isolated. There is no means of communication due to electric power interruption. Effects of the typhoon will be felt for about three days more. GFHP staff are setting a plan in order to bring help to our affected members. We will be sending additional reports as we gather information and photos by visiting the areas.

Please support us in prayers and in whatever way you can in order for us to extend love and compassion to our needy and suffering brothers and sisters.”